Disclaimer: SVU and all of its characters were created by and are the property of Dick Wolf. I make no profit with this story, which is my own original work.

Elliot woke on Sunday morning, uncertain at first as to why he was still in the living room and not his bedroom. No matter how sparse his apartment was now until the last of his things could be moved into the brownstone within coming days, he still thought he would have had the presence of mind to fall asleep in the right place. That was when he turned his attention to the sofa at his side and saw Calvin, and memories from the night before came flooding back. Not only of his having invited the boy to stay with him and spend some time, but of the fun they'd had together and how grateful he had been to have been given the opportunity to bond even more with someone who Olivia cared for so much.

Although it had taken a great deal of convincing to get Calvin to put down his newly acquired and already much beloved Nintendo DS, Elliot had managed to get him to release it long enough to not only eat, but also eventually sleep. However, after the lights had been turned out, Calvin had become quite chatty, as though the darkness had bolstered his courage and enabled him to ask the questions he'd been holding in for far too long, but was previously too afraid to ask out loud. Beyond touched to be trusted enough, Elliot had done his best to provide what answers he could.

Most of what Calvin had wanted to know had to do with Olivia's health, and whether or not his grandparents were being truthful. One thing was for certain, and that was that he believed Olivia completely with the news that she was being released from the hospital on Monday. The lingering doubts were more to do with whether or not she would recover completely. That, and a general unease as to if Elliot genuinely liked him or was merely putting up with him simply because he wanted to make Olivia happy.

Not wanting the young adolescent to think for even a second that he was pretending, Elliot was quick to offer assurances. He even made sure that Calvin still had his number, and reminded him that he could call at any time – day or night.

Rubbing his palms over his face, Elliot allowed himself a languid stretch, ignoring the way his joints protested not only the movement but the previous night's sleeping arrangements. A glance at his phone told him that while it was still relatively early, they'd need to be getting up soon. His plan was to take Calvin somewhere for breakfast first before going to the hospital to see Olivia, and he wasn't sure how long the boy would need to get ready.

Swinging his legs around to the side, Elliot pulled himself to a sitting position. As it so happened, it seemed the subtle movement was enough to wake Calvin, as the boy stirred and blinked sleepily at him from across the room.

"Elliot? Did I oversleep? Are we still going to be able to see Olivia?"

"No, you didn't, and yes, we are. In fact, it's too soon to get into the hospital yet, so I thought after you got ready, we could go and find some breakfast."

The suggestion earned Elliot the first smile of the morning, but he could tell that the wheels were already turning in Calvin's mind.

"Can we get something to take to Olivia, too?"

"Of course. I don't know if we'll be able to find anything on her allowed foods list wherever we eat, but we can always make another stop. Plus, I'm sure she'd love some of the good coffee."

Another smile, and soon Calvin, too, was on his feet. Since the boy had opted to take his shower the night before, that only left Elliot in need of a quick one before they left. Knowing he needed to iron out a few details beforehand, Elliot allowed his guest to use the bathroom first. Understanding full well Calvin's eagerness to get to the hospital to see Olivia again as soon as visiting hours would allow, he promised that it wouldn't take him long to get sorted.

Calvin returned several minutes later, dressed and ready for the day. As he was about to take his turn, Elliot issued a reminder, and not for the first time.

"Keep making yourself at home. I'll be as quick as I can. I know you're anxious to get to Olivia. I am, too."

Grabbing one of the few changes of clothes he still had left in the place, Elliot headed into the bathroom to shower and shave. True to his word, it didn't take him long at all, and soon after, he and Calvin were out the door and on their way to a nearby diner. Just as he had the night before, the youngster seemed to have a voracious appetite, and the fact that he would also be able to choose something special to take in for the woman whom he cared for so deeply was another positive factor. Elliot couldn't help but wonder how many more times he'd have to remind Calvin that there was no need to rush – or if the boy would simply forget to chew and inhale his breakfast altogether.

For all his earlier excitement, once they got to the diner, it seemed that Calvin had calmed down somewhat. Apparently, the chocolate chip pancakes and bacon he planned to order were enough of a distraction that it kept him from wanting to rush his way through. Not only was he just as animated in conversation as he had been the night before, but he even made a quick call to Virginia to confirm that he wouldn't have to leave Olivia's side until after lunch.

As for Elliot's own breakfast, he was working his way through a plate of bacon, eggs, hash browns, and toast. Even though he'd been eating his meals at regular intervals with his partner during her hospital stay, he had to admit to himself that this was likely the first time in a long while that he'd taken the opportunity to relax and actually stop to enjoy his food as well. The fact that Olivia was due to be released soon was such a relief, and they would probably both have an improvement in their daily routines once she was home and settled.

No matter how much calmer Calvin had been, however, Elliot knew he wouldn't be deterred indefinitely. Opting to forgo a second cup of coffee, he instead asked their server for the check. They still had one more stop to make on the way to the hospital, to fulfill a promise made to Olivia and Calvin both. At least the additional time spent at the diner would have afforded his partner the precious extra minutes to get ready for the day, as Elliot was well aware Olivia had been putting more effort into her appearance lately for Calvin's sake.

Back in the car, Elliot headed for one of Olivia's favorite coffee shops. Fortunately, this particular location also featured a drive thru, so he wouldn't have to get out of the vehicle again. Even though he had a fairly good idea of what his partner would choose, he also wanted to have Calvin feel as though he were part of the decision.

"So, what do you think, buddy? What shall we get Olivia to go with her coffee? A blueberry muffin or a slice of the iced lemon loaf?"

Taking his part in the task very seriously, Calvin's face took on a very thoughtful expression.

"What if you could do the best of both? Do they have a lemon blueberry cake or muffin?"

"That's a great idea, Calvin, and I think you just might be right. She would love that."

As he pulled up to order, not wanting to show up at the hospital with nothing for the young kid next to him to enjoy – even though he had just eaten an entire meal – Elliot made the offer to buy Calvin anything he wanted. Any additional food was declined, but the boy did accept some hot chocolate.

No matter how worried Elliot was about entrusting the carrier of hot drinks to his passenger for the remainder of the drive, he really had no other choice. Thankfully, they were all carefully wedged into their individual holders, so there was no danger of them spilling. Plus, it wasn't that much farther to the hospital. They reached their destination in no time at all, and once parked, Elliot gladly took the burden from Calvin, having him carry the bag containing Olivia's after breakfast treat instead. Elliot also decided to shoulder the duffel that Calvin had kept at his place overnight, leaving his younger companion free to carry his backpack.

When they got to Olivia's room, they found the brunette waiting for their arrival, dressed and ready for the day and sitting in her favorite chair. She greeted them both with a beaming smile, and her arms were open and ready to welcome Calvin in a hug as soon as he dropped his backpack and ran to her.

"Hey, you. Did you have a good time with Elliot last night?"

"I did! Thank you so much for my Nintendo DS! I love it so much! I wanted to call you before I went to bed last night, but Elliot was worried you might be sleeping."

"You're very welcome, sweet boy. I'm so glad you like it."

Calvin stepped back then, letting Elliot say his own greeting. The man moved forward to press a kiss to his partner's forehead, and then passed a cup into her hands.

"Morning, Liv. One more sleep to go."

"Careful, El. Don't want to jinx it."

"I hear you."

Before things could get too heavy, Calvin spoke up again, suddenly remembering his part in the surprise he and Elliot had planned together.

"Here, Olivia. This is for you. We couldn't decide if you'd prefer a blueberry muffin or a slice of lemon loaf, so we went with a combination of both. It's a lemon blueberry streusel cake."

"That sounds delicious. I know I'll love it. Come, sit by me and tell me all about last night and this morning while I eat it and drink my coffee."

Given the opportunity to talk, Calvin gladly took it. He chattered on, excitedly sharing how the night before had gone. While the gift that had been bestowed upon him was definitely the highlight of his evening, it was equally obvious that he had enjoyed the takeout dinner with Elliot and watching movies, too. Same went for breakfast that morning. Seeing two people whom she cared for so deeply getting along so well together and bonding did Olivia's heart so much good, and she continued to hope that things would be worked out so that she would get even more time with Calvin as the weeks and months went on.

As she drained the last few drops of her coffee, and brushed the remaining crumbs of cake from her fingers, Olivia glanced at Elliot over the top of Calvin's head. Following a wordless conversation with her partner, she turned to the boy sitting beside her, needing to ask a question.

"So, Calvin, I could stand to stretch my legs. How would you like to keep me company while I go for a walk in the halls?"

Olivia never would have thought she'd see Calvin smile so big, at least not since the day before, when he'd learned he'd have the opportunity to stay with Elliot overnight and see her again today. What she'd offered him wasn't much when it came to the grand scheme of things, but she supposed in the younger boy's mind, it was the first real active role he would be able to play in her recovery – even if it was simply accompanying her on a short walk in the hospital hallway.

"Is this something you do often, Olivia?"

"I try to. Not only is it good for my health for me to keep moving, but it's also a tremendous help to keep me from getting bored. I've been taking several short walks a day ever since they started letting me."

"I can't say I blame you. I just wish I could visit with you longer."

Olivia stopped, resting her hand on Calvin's shoulder.

"I know you do. But it's been great seeing you, and I want you to remember what your grandma said yesterday. No matter what happens, we're going to get to spend more time with one another from now on. Plus, you can always call me."

Clinging to the woman in front of him with his second hug of the day, Calvin held on to Olivia as tight as he possibly could. Even though there were still a few hours to go until his grandparents would come to pick him up after lunch, the last thing he wanted was to return to Vermont. Being back in New York City and spending time with Olivia again – and Elliot as well – was the first time that things had felt normal in a long while. When he was here with Olivia, he didn't have to pretend.

"Calvin, sweetie, why don't we go back to my room and talk?"

Calvin felt as Olivia placed her hands on his shoulders and gently guided him back down the hallway in the direction of where they had come from. It dawned on him that he must have spoken what he was thinking out loud, and he suddenly began to worry that he might be in trouble. What would happen if his grandparents found out?

"Hey El, can you give us a few minutes?"

"Of course. Message me if either of you need anything, I'll just be down in the visitor lounge."

Making herself comfortable in her usual chair, Olivia patted the one next to her, inviting Calvin to sit close by. Seeing the stricken expression on his face made her want to not only promise him the world, but wish she could instantly fix everything, but it was not within her power to do that – at least not yet. What she could do, however, was reassure him that now that they were back in one another's lives, she wasn't going anywhere. Much like she had stated in the hallway, Olivia wanted to reiterate that she would be a constant presence for as long as Calvin wanted her to be.

"Talk to me, Calvin. You know you can tell me anything, right?"

Looking the most miserable that she'd seen him so far since he'd been back in her presence – save for his impulsive admission the day before when he'd said that he wanted to come and live with her – the young adolescent appeared to be gathering his courage. Olivia waited patiently, knowing that if Calvin were going to open up to her, it needed to be on his own time.

"I'm just feeling sad. I don't want to go back to Vermont. I was happy this weekend, because it meant getting to see you, and I loved spending time with Elliot last night, but it all went by far too fast. I'm not ready for it to end."

That was something Olivia could relate to. Truth be told, she wasn't ready to say goodbye, either, even though she had a better understanding that ironing out the details of what an arrangement like Virginia and her husband were trying to set in place would mean. It wasn't something that would happen overnight, no matter how much she wanted it to. But before she could respond, or even attempt to offer just a hint of encouragement, Calvin was continuing on, having apparently been relieved at the ability to unburden himself.

"It's more than that, though. I mentioned before that I don't like Vermont – I hate it there. Not my grandparents, they aren't the issue, it just doesn't feel like home. The kids at school make fun of me, I don't fit in, and I always feel alone."

Given everything that Calvin had experienced in his young life, it was no wonder that he was struggling. Olivia was certain that Vivian had never sought out counseling for her son, and she was willing to wager that it was something the Drecker's hadn't considered either. Not out of negligence, but rather out of trying to pretend that everything was fine. However, she wouldn't doubt that Calvin might benefit greatly from seeing a therapist on a regular basis. Not wanting to mention anything just yet, realizing that it would be better to first bring up the topic to Virginia first, Olivia instead thought of an alternative.

"I'm sorry that you are dealing with that. I had trouble at school when I was your age, too. But you have something that I didn't."

"What's that?"

"You have a support system that you can count on. I'm sure if you tell your grandparents, they will help you – and like I promised before, so will I. Even Elliot is on your side. All of us will do whatever we can. All we want is what is best for you."

Olivia watched as Calvin processed what she had said.

"You really think my grandparents will listen?"

"I know they will. If you want, we can set aside some time to talk to them before you leave. I'll be there with you when you do."

"You'd do that for me?"

"Of course."

Throwing his arms around Olivia's neck, Calvin thanked her. He then rushed out, anxious to make a phone call to his grandmother and ask her to allow time so they wouldn't be rushed when she came to the hospital to get him. Needing the additional emotional support herself, Olivia used the opportunity to message her partner, who appeared in her room within moments, enveloping her in an embrace.

Spending those few precious minutes wrapped in Elliot's arms had been exactly what Olivia had needed. It not only grounded her, but gave her the strength to face not only Calvin, but the Drecker's when they inevitably arrived in a few hours. The last thing she wanted was for Calvin to face yet another monumental disappointment, or for her own heart to potentially be broken again. But there was more hope now than there had ever been before, and with Elliot in her corner, she didn't have to face any of this alone. Olivia was about to say something to her partner, but before she had a chance, Calvin was racing back into the room.

"Hey Olivia. I talked to my grandma, she said she'd be coming in after lunch, I guess it works out that she wants to talk to you, too. There will still be time before we have to catch our train. I don't have school tomorrow – I just wish I didn't have to go back."

Not wanting the boy to get upset again, even though she knew he was perfectly entitled to his feelings. Olivia tried to offer a distraction.

"I know, but that still leaves us a few hours with each other. How did you want to spend the time? The three of us can watch a movie together on my laptop, or you can show me how your new game works."

"A game might be fun, but I think I'd rather watch a movie."

"You've got it."

Olivia pulled one of Calvin's favorite movies up, and Elliot took his seat next to his partner. After getting permission, Calvin stretched out a bit on the bed, making himself a bit more comfortable, but still able to see the screen. The next ninety minutes were spent with the three of them laughing, and it was only when the credits rolled that Elliot spoke again.

"Well, buddy, I think you have another decision to make. We still have some time, but I know you're going to want to eat lunch here. So, you'll have to let me know what you want me to go and get for us. Nothing is off limits."

It was clear that Calvin was taking the suggestion seriously. Turning to the woman he clearly cared a great deal about, he asked for her opinion.

"What will you be having for lunch, Olivia?"

"Well, I'm afraid my lunches still aren't too exciting. The selection isn't that great, so I usually end up getting grilled chicken and vegetables."

Calvin made a face.

"That does sound boring. I remember you couldn't eat pizza with us yesterday, are you sure that didn't bother you – that we won't upset you if we eat take out in here again when you can't?"

"Of course not. Yes, I do miss being able to eat what I want, but I also want to do what the doctors tell me so I can get better. It shouldn't be forever, and its not all that bad."

Calvin got off the bed and went to hug Olivia again, relieved that he wouldn't be upsetting her, then he turned to Elliot, an idea already forming.

"Hey, Elliot?"

"Yeah?"

"We've already had some of my favorite New York City foods that I've been missing, like pizza and Chinese, but there is one more that just isn't the same in Vermont."

Elliot exchanged a glance with Olivia, sharing a knowing smile.

"Deli it is. Do you have a preference, or will any do?"

"It doesn't matter, as long as there are extra pickles."

"You've got it."

Elliot stepped out of the room for a second, on the excuse of wanting to use the restroom. It was Olivia who realized her partner had an ulterior motive, and she was willing to bet that Elliot just wanted to ask the nurses for permission for he and Calvin to order delivery. She didn't think anyone would have an issue with it, especially considering she didn't plan on eating any of the food herself. Not to mention the fact that she knew her partner well enough to know that Elliot likely was plotting some type of gift for the staff to be given along with her upcoming release.

A glance at the boy sitting on her bed made Olivia's heart pull. She could tell he was thinking too much again, his mind likely already focused on the inevitable farewell a few hours away. Not wanting him to dwell on that just yet – and not wanting to think about it herself, either, Olivia opted for yet another distraction.

"So, Calvin – we've got a few minutes before El comes back. Why don't you show me your new Nintendo DS and try and teach me how to play it?"

"Okay!"

Rushing over to the corner where he had stashed his backpack, Calvin snagged his recently gifted and much loved handheld game. Returning to sit beside Olivia, he excitedly launched into an explanation. He was still in the middle of his tutorial by the time Elliot returned a few minutes later.

Just as Olivia had speculated, Elliot had indeed had ulterior motives while on his mission to use the restroom. Not only had he asked the nurses if it would be alright if he and Calvin placed an order for delivery for their lunch, but he had even surreptitiously done some investigating and learned some of the staff's favorite places, vital information that would help him in his mission when he ultimately selected something to gift those who had spent so much time taking care of the woman that he loved.

"Well, Calvin, I've not only gotten permission for us to order in, but I've learned which place closest to the hospital has the best food and service. I can pull their menu up on my phone so you can decide what you want."

Turning to Olivia, Calvin asked a question, voicing a similar concern to something he had asked not long ago.

"Olivia, are you sure it won't bother you if we do that? I know we ate pizza in front of you yesterday, but I still feel bad eating something that you can't."

"Don't worry about it. I'll be fine, I promise. I'll be going home soon, and while it may be a bit longer before I can have anything from a deli, I know Elliot will make sure I'm eating well. Between you and me, I'm willing to bet he's probably already been working on some recipes that are within my special diet."

"Guilty as charged."

That got a smile out of Calvin, and Olivia could tell that he felt more reassured. She watched as the boy temporarily abandoned his video game to join her partner and look over the menu, ultimately deciding on a turkey and swiss on sourdough. Before Elliot even had a chance to select his own standby of a pastrami on rye, Calvin was eagerly reminding him not to forget the extra pickles. A double order of fries was added along with their sandwiches, then Elliot submitted his credit card details to pay. According to the information details he was given their food was scheduled to be delivered in about fifteen minutes, right about the time Olivia's lunch tray was due to arrive.

It was obvious that Calvin was starting to get a bit more mopey, but Olivia and Elliot were trying their best to keep his spirits up. They already knew the boy was disappointed that the weekend was coming to an end, but it wasn't until he spoke up that the partners realized there was something else on his mind as well.

"At least when grandma sends me out of the room this time to talk to you, Olivia, I'll have something to keep me occupied. I know I've said it several times already, but I still can't thank you and Elliot enough for my new Nintendo."

"You're very welcome. But just so you know, you're going to be part of the conversation today, too. What you think and feel matters, and I never want you to forget that."

Calvin thought about that for a few moments, before asking a question. It was clear that this was something that was equally important to him.

"Elliot, will you be in the room when Olivia talks to my grandma?"

"I was planning on it. Olivia had asked me to stay, mainly because she and I are going to be living together in the brownstone. But if you'd rather I didn't, or if you wanted me to keep you company instead, all you have to do is say so."

"No. I want you to. I like you. I had fun staying with you last night, and I'm glad you're on my side, too. It feels like it evens the odds somehow."

Elliot's brow furrowed, and he crossed the room to sit on the bed beside Calvin. Olivia had already reached her hand out to take one of the boy's hands in her own, so when Elliot wrapped an arm around Calvin's shoulders, they were both offering support. In the end, it was Olivia who spoke the words on each of their minds.

"Calvin, sweetie, this isn't a contest or a fight. I'm sorry if you've been made to feel like it is. That's the last thing I'd ever want."

" You didn't make me feel that way – mom did. She took me away from you, away from the only place I'd ever called home. I love grandma and grandpa, but up until a few months ago, I'd never even met them. Sometimes they still feel like strangers. And I know mom only sent me away was because she was mad at you. She didn't even think about what I wanted."

Olivia shared an anguished look with Elliot. It was taking every ounce of willpower she possessed not to cry, but the last thing she wanted right now was to upset Calvin any more than he already was. The adolescent was more insightful than many of the adults in his life ever gave him credit for, and Olivia was reminded yet again of her promise to try and get him the help he needed. She would do whatever was in her power, but she knew there were some things beyond her reach. Even though she was still in the hospital, she made another mental note to reach out to George Huang, to see if he had any contacts about counselors who could help Calvin. The boy needed someone to talk to, to vent out his frustrations before they began to eat away at him and cause more harm than they already had.

"I'm sorry you've been hurting. I just want to reinforce my promise to you from earlier. I'm going to talk to your grandma about finding you someone you can talk to about what you've been dealing with. Also, I want you to remember that until something gets sorted out, you can call me at any time, day or night. That goes for Elliot, too."

Calvin turned his head toward the man sitting next to him, receiving a nod of confirmation. The three soon found themselves in a group hug, and it wasn't until the rumbling of carts in the hallway was heard that they broke up, knowing that Olivia's lunch was due to arrive at any moment, which meant that the deli delivery was also imminent. Excusing himself to the restroom, Calvin exited the room, leaving the two partners alone.

"You okay, Liv?"

"I will be. I just want everything to work out. For the sake of everyone involved."

"I know you do. I don't have much, but just know if you want to get a lawyer – not that I think it will be necessary, the Drecker's seem willing to work with you- I'll help you however I can. But if it becomes a matter of proving your abilities, I want you to know you're not going to have to do this on your own."

The tears she had held back previously for Calvin's sake spilled over, and Olivia allowed Elliot to comfort her. Her partner obviously remembered her previous attempts at trying to adopt, only to be turned down because of her single status and long hours on the job. But together, they would be an unstoppable force, and what she had been dealing with recently had proved to her in more ways than one that she did indeed have a family – maybe not blood related, but a family that would do anything for her.

Lunch was great, not only because Olivia was counting down the last of the hospital meals she had left to eat, but because she so loved seeing Calvin enjoy himself. However, it was equally bittersweet, because everyone knew that the Drecker's would be arriving soon, and no one was quite ready for the goodbye that was to come.

Not long after Olivia's tray had been collected, and the last of the garbage had been cleared, Calvin's phone chimed. It was his grandmother, who was letting them know that she and her husband had just arrived by taxi. Knowing that he would eventually be asked to leave so the adults could talk, Calvin inched more closely to Olivia, not wanting to leave her side. She reflexively wrapped an arm around his shoulders, already intuiting what was troubling him.

"You don't have to go anywhere yet, sweet boy. I haven't forgotten what it was you wanted to share. It's one of the first things I'm going to mention, because I know how important it is to you."

Before Calvin had a chance to reply, there was a soft knock at the door. Virginia appeared soon after, followed by a man that Olivia had never met before, but looked vaguely familiar. He was soon introduced as David, sharing the same name as his son. The Dreckers stored their luggage took a moment to store their luggage in a corner of the room. After a few pleasantries were exchanged and Calvin had a few moments to share some of the events from his night before spending time at Elliot's apartment, Olivia could tell that Virginia was about ready to ask her grandson to give the adults some space to talk. Placing a steadying hand on Calvin's shoulder, she calmed him with a simple touch.

"Actually, I thought we could all sit down together for a few minutes, if you didn't mind. There was something Calvin mentioned to me today that he wants you to know about. It's very important before we discuss anything else."

"Of course."

There weren't very many chairs left in the room, but Elliot took a seat on the bed with Calvin, but only after checking in with the boy a second time, and making sure his presence was welcome. Following a reassuring nod from Olivia, Calvin began to speak.

"I was just telling Olivia about how much I miss New York, and that I don't like my school. Don't get me wrong, I love both of you, but Vermont just doesn't feel like home. I've tried to give it a chance, I really have. But I get made fun of by the other kids, and I'm really not happy there. That's one of the many reasons I want to come back here. It has nothing to do with you. I should have said that yesterday. The last thing I want is to make you sad."

Just as she had the day before, when Calvin had spoke about his desire to live with Olivia, Virginia was more than understanding and empathetic. Even though her eyes were shining with tears, it was obvious that she realized how much her grandson was struggling.

"I know you don't want that, sweetie. While I have to be honest and say that your grandfather and I are upset, it's not your fault. Rather, it's because we could see how much you were hurting, and we just didn't know how to make it better."

Reaching for her husband's hand, Virginia continued on.

"I was going to wait until I talked to Olivia and Elliot first, but I think you're old enough to hear this. We spoke to your father yesterday, and came to some decisions. It's going to take some time to get everything sorted out, but we'll all be moving to New York. Your grandfather and I want to be closer to your father, and I know you want to be closer to Olivia."

The transformation on Calvin's face was a sight to behold.

"Really! That's great! Does this mean I get to spend more time with Olivia and Elliot?"

"It does. Your father gave his permission, and we know Olivia and Elliot are okay with it, so once we are settled here, we'll iron out a plan."

Calvin flew off the bed to hug his grandmother first, then his grandfather. Olivia was wiping tears from her eyes, beyond happy not only for the boy she loved so dearly, but also for herself. Before she could get too lost to her emotion, Virginia was speaking again, and she reminded herself to pay attention.

"It may take a bit before we can get things sorted, though, so you will probably need to finish out the school year, but there is only about two months or so left. Do you think you will be able to handle that, or would you rather we make other arrangements?"

"I can manage. But, can we find someone for me to talk to that can help?"

Momentarily confused, Virginia turned to Olivia for an explanation.

"He's talking about a therapist or a counselor. If you need some recommendations, I can reach out to a colleague who can give you some names, especially if you'd be interested in finding someone who would be able to continue treating Calvin once you make the transition here to the city."

"I'd appreciate that, thank you."

Now that an immense weight was off his shoulders, it was Calvin who ended up excusing himself, saying he was headed to the visitor's lounge. With his new Nintendo DS in hand, he exited the room with a wave, making all the adults laugh as he said they could continue with their 'grown-up talk', but ensuring a promise that he would be able to say his goodbyes before he and his grandparents left to catch their train.

Once it was only the four adults in the room, Olivia reached for one of the tissues on her bedside table and passed it over to Virginia, then took one for herself as well. It seemed everyone had been keeping a tenuous hold on their emotions for Calvin's sake, but now that he had left, the two women at least were letting a few tears spill free. There wouldn't be enough time to discuss everything – not with what precious minutes that remained – but there were a few important things that needed to be said, in particular what had been shared during the conversation the day before at the prison. After taking a moment to gather her composure, Virginia looked to her husband for reassurance, than began to speak.

"I know we'll have a lot of details to iron out between us, and we wouldn't be offended in the least if you wanted to have an attorney of your own look over the paperwork once we get everything together. We understand that both of you only have Calvin's best interests at heart."

Virginia waited for Olivia's nod of confirmation, then continued.

"What I told Calvin was indeed the truth, but I was purposely vague while in his presence. I won't lie to you Olivia, my son was hesitant at first when we presented the idea to him, but only because of the bitterness he still holds against Vivian. It came as a double blow to him to learn that his son had been abandoned yet again, and even more so to find out just how unhappy Calvin is."

Seeing how much his wife was struggling, the elder David Drecker took over.

"Don't get us wrong, we aren't trying to excuse the choices that our son made, or say that the consequences he is facing as a result aren't just. But we hope you will believe us when we say that he does care about his child, and wants what is best for him, no matter how jaded his motives may have been."

Speaking in near unison, Olivia and Elliot replied that they did understand. Obviously they didn't say that they condoned what David had done to Sarah, but that went without saying.

"David agrees that Calvin has an incredible bond with you, Olivia, and also that he is not thriving in Vermont. While he doesn't believe that living with you on a permanent basis is the answer, he does however concede that our idea of shared custody might be just what he needs."

Unable to let that comment pass, even though she realized no insult was meant by it, Olivia interjected.

"Like I said before, I'd never want to take Calvin away from you completely. You're his family. I hope you helped your son to understand my position on that."

Able to find her voice again, it was Virginia who offered a reassurance.

"We did, dear. We also told David about everything you've done for Calvin, and just how much he's blossomed in just the few days since coming back into contact with you. With Vivian relinquishing her rights completely, he's also signed papers. We now have the ability to adopt our grandson if we so choose."

The atmosphere in the room was becoming highly emotionally charged, and Olivia was clinging to Elliot's hand for all she was worth. She waited for Virginia to speak again, hoping beyond hope that she wasn't dreaming, and what she had always wanted wouldn't be taken away from her yet again.

"We'll still need to talk to our lawyer, of course, and like I said, I'm sure you'll want to consult one as well. But given your line of work and the fact that you were previously named Calvin's guardian, I believe you are already an approved foster parent, correct?"

Olivia and Elliot both nodded, confirming the older woman's guess.

"That will be one less wrinkle to have to iron out, based on some of the research I was doing online while at the hotel. Our plan is to proceed as follows, and once my husband and I move back to the city, set up a plan for shared custody, where Calvin will spend time with each of us. Also, if you both agree, we would like to name you, Olivia – and by extension, you Elliot – as guardians in the event than anything happens to us."

Olivia was on the verge of tears again, but for completely different reasons than before. Now, it was pure happiness, and she didn't think she'd be able to get her words of agreement out beyond the lump in her throat. However, the expression on her face must have said everything, because the next thing she knew, Virginia was embracing her, and the two women held on to one another tightly, their shared connection even deeper than it had been before.

"Now that is settled, I guess we just need to work on finding an apartment."

Clearing his throat, Elliot looked first to Olivia, arching an eyebrow. She read her partner's mind immediately, then gave an encouraging nod.

"Actually, I might be able to help with that."

Curious, both of the Dreckers turned to face the male Detective who they hadn't known that well before now, but whom they were coming to like and respect more and more with each passing moment.

"I'm sure you're aware that Liv and I are moving into our own place together, only a few more odds and ends remain at each of our individual residences. However, the lease on my apartment isn't up for another two months, roughly the time when Calvin would be done with school. If you're interested, and it's something within your budget, I could put a good word in with my landlord, and we could see about simply transferring it over into your name."

It was clear by their expressions that Virginia and David thought it was too good to be true, and didn't know what to say. That was when Elliot told them that they didn't have to make a decision in that moment, and to think about it. Unfortunately, it also meant that it was about time to head to the train station. While her husband went to collect Calvin from the visitor's lounge so he could say his goodbye's to Olivia, Virginia spent a few more minutes with her as well. By the time Calvin came back and threw himself into Olivia's arms, Elliot was helping the Dreckers gather their things, having had another wordless conversation with his partner.

"Olivia, I don't want to say goodbye to you, but it's not as bad as I thought it would be. At least this time I know I'll get to see you again. Will you send me pictures of my new room once my furniture gets here?"

"I can do that. And don't forget – you can call me any time you want. I also promise I'm going to find someone you can talk to about everything you've been feeling, okay?"

"Okay."

Picking up Calvin's bag in one hand, Elliot passed the boy his backpack with the other.

"Come on, let me drive you to the train station. Getting a cab at this hour will cost a fortune."

"Are you sure.?"

"I insist. Liv? I'll be back in a bit."

That was how Olivia found herself on her own, her room feeling the quietest it ever had since she'd come to stay in the hospital, but not really minding at all. She was sad, obviously, and she missed Calvin already, but she was full of hope, too. For the first time in as long as she could remember there was so much to look forward to. Not to mention, if everything went according to plan, tomorrow she would get to go home.